Barney Vinson's World

Planning a trip to Las Vegas in the near future? Each month we'll spotlight a different casino so you'll get a better idea of what each resort has to offer. This month, it's the Las Vegas Hilton.

Built by zillionaire Kirk Kerkorian, this resort was once the largest hotel in the world. The dramatic entry is highlighted by solid glass walls, brass-handled doors, cobblestone paving, polished marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and silk flower arrangements.

Originally named the International, it's the only megaresort in town that doesn't front the Las Vegas Strip. It's on Paradise Road next to the Convention Center, which is the main reason why it's such a successful operation. That, and the fact that Elvis Presley made his comeback there in the early 1970s. Presley fans still flock to the resort, hoping to catch one more glimpse of their favorite star.

"There he is!"

"No, that's just our busboy."

"There he is!"

"No, that's my wife's uncle from Texas."

"There he is!"

"No, that's the Goodyear blimp."

See the Elvis Collection. Included is a jump suit worn by Elvis, his guitar, and a bronze-cast statue of the King. It's in the main lobby, and it's free.

See "Star Trek: The Experience." Paramount Parks and the Las Vegas Hilton have joined forces to bring Star Trek to life. Located in the North Tower of the Hilton, this dazzling adventure gives you the chance to assume the identity of a Starfleet or alien crew member. You see, hear, feel, and live the adventure through a totally interactive entertainment concept. Price: Less than a week's salary. Length of ride: 22 minutes.

See the Las Vegas Hilton Race and Sports Superbook. Voted the best sports book in Las Vegas year after year, this state-of-the-art sports facility boasts the largest video wall in the world, second only to NASA. With 40 video screens fed by 14 satellite dishes, you can watch nearly every major sporting event or race being televised at any given time. The Hilton Superbook is a popular spot for football bettors, since the Hilton issues the country's first nationally recognized betting line each week for both pro and college football.

The Las Vegas Hilton has some great restaurants including the world-famous Benihana Village. This enchanting Japanese fantasyland sends you off to the Orient, where you'll see thunder and lightning storms, lush Japanese gardens, gurgling streams, winding foot paths, and an authentic Torii Arch soaring high above you. Have cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at Benihana's Kabuki Lounge, then eat at the Benihana Seafood Grille (nice aquarium at the entrance), or at Hibachi, where a chef chops, dices, and stir fries right at your table. Suggestion: Bring another couple. If it's just you and your wife or husband, you're liable to find yourself seated with a couple of complete strangers.

Golfers will love the Las Vegas Hilton Country Club. The par-71 course, with five lakes and plenty of trees, is only 10 minutes away. Hotel guests receive special rates and preferred tee times. Get a hole in one on the par-5 14th hole and receive a free golf ball with the Hilton logo on it. Mine is displayed over my fireplace.